Common-Pool Resources
Common-pool resources are natural or man-made resources that are shared by a group of people. These resources are characterized by two main features: they are difficult to exclude individuals from using, and one person's use of the resource can diminish its availability for others. Examples include fisheries, forests, and water sources.
Management of common-pool resources often requires cooperation among users to prevent overuse and depletion. When individuals act in their own self-interest without considering the collective impact, it can lead to the "tragedy of the commons," where the resource becomes overexploited and ultimately degraded. Effective governance and sustainable practices are essential for preserving these resources.